Hey, friends! Welcome back to blog. Today, I’m super excited to share a fun and creative project with you — How to Make a 3D Multi-Layer Card with Cricut!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links, at no additional cost to you.
How to Make a 3D Multi-Layer Card with Cricut
If you love making handmade cards or want to take your Cricut skills to the next level, this tutorial is perfect for you. I’ll walk you through everything—from setting up the design in Cricut Design Space to printing, cutting, and assembling all the layers for that gorgeous dimensional effect.
The best part? I used only free graphics in Design Space, so you don’t need a Cricut Access subscription to create this card! I’ve also included a link to my template so you can follow along easily.
So, let’s get started!
Supplies You’ll Need:
Before we jump in, here’s a list of everything you’ll need to make this 3D layered card:
✔ Cricut Machine – You can use the Cricut Maker, Explore 3, or Joy Xtra for this project.
✔ Glossy Photo Paper (8.5×11) – This will give your layers a professional look.
✔ 12×12 Cardstock – For the card base, I recommend using Recollections cardstock (available at Michaels).
✔ Foam Adhesive Tape – This adds the dimensional effect. I got mine from Dollar Tree, but any brand works!
✔ Cricut Scoring Tool – Helps create perfect fold lines.
✔ Cutting Mats – Use a StandardGrip Mat for cardstock and a StrongGrip Mat for glossy photo paper.
✔ Adhesive Tape Roller or Glue – For securing layers together.
Once you have your supplies ready, let’s move on to the design process in Cricut Design Space.
Watch the full video tutorial on my YouTube channel for a visual guide!
Step 1: Open the Card Template in Cricut Design Space
- Click on the template link in the description to open the design in Cricut Design Space.
- Click Customize to edit and adjust the design.
- I like to change my canvas color to light gray so I can see all my Print then Cut elements clearly. You can do this by clicking the blank canvas layer and adjusting the color settings.
Now, let’s go over all the elements in this template.
Step 2: Understanding the Template Components
This project consists of a few different layers to create that stunning 3D effect:
✅ Outer Card (Base Layer): This is the main card piece that gets scored and folded. When folded, it measures 4.75 inches square.
✅ Insert Card (Background Layer): This goes inside the card to create contrast and depth. I recommend cutting this from coordinating cardstock.
✅ Layered Frames: These are designed to be Print then Cut pieces that will stack together to form the 3D effect.
✅ Decorative Elements: We’ll be adding a cute bunny image, floral elements, and banners to complete the design.
Step 3: Uploading & Preparing Your Images
Now it’s time to bring in our images! I used a super cute bunny from Creative Fabrica, but you can use any image you like.
- Upload your image into Cricut Design Space.
- Resize it to fit within one of the frames (about 4 inches works well).
- Create an Offset around the image (I set mine to 0.097 inches) so there’s a smooth cut around it.
- Change the Offset Color to white for a polished look.
- Attach & Flatten the offset and image together so they print as one.
Tip: Repeat this process for each decorative element (like the banners and floral accents) to create multiple layers for depth!
Step 4: Assembling the 3D Layers in Cricut Design Space
- Arrange Your Frames & Images – Make sure each Print then Cut element is sized correctly to fit within the frames.
- Prepare the Cutout Design for the Front Panel
- Upload a wreath or floral frame to use as a decorative cutout.
- Create an offset around it and slice it from the outer card layer to create a see-through effect.
Now that everything is sized and aligned, it’s time to print and cut!
Step 5: Printing & Cutting the Layers
- Send the design to your printer – Select Premium Glossy Photo Paper and High-Quality Printing for best results.
- Cut with Cricut – Load the printed sheet onto a StrongGrip Mat and let your Cricut read the registration marks before cutting.
- Cut the Outer Card Base – Use Medium Cardstock with More Pressure to get a clean fold and cut.
Once all the pieces are printed and cut, we can start assembling the card!
Step 6: Assembling the 3D Card
- Fold the Base Card – Follow the scoring lines to create a slight spine for the card (this helps accommodate the thick layered elements).
- Attach the Insert Card – Use an adhesive roller or glue to secure the background layer inside the card.
- Build the 3D Layers:
- Start with the bottom banner layer – Use foam tape to raise it slightly.
- Add the bunny image next – Again, use foam tape for dimension.
- Place the top banner layer last – This creates a stacked effect that makes the design pop!
- Attach the Front Cutout Frame – Align and secure it on the front panel using adhesive tape or glue.
Tip: If you want extra dimension, you can use double layers of foam tape between some layers!
Step 7: Final Touches & Personalization
- Check Alignment – Make sure all layers are straight and evenly spaced.
- Write a Message – You can handwrite a note on the inside or back of the card.
- Gift & Display – This card is perfect for special occasions, Easter, birthdays, or as a cute decorative piece!
And that’s it! You’ve just made a stunning 3D multi-layered card using your Cricut!
I know this project has a lot of steps, but once you do it a couple of times, it becomes super easy. The best part is, you can customize the design for any occasion by switching out the images, colors, and themes.
If you give this project a try, I’d love to see your creations! Tag me on social media or leave a comment below with your thoughts @michellespartyplanit.
Happy Crafting!
Want more card tutorials? Check out these…
How to Sublimate on Glitter Cardstock For Card Making
How to Make a Cutout Card with Cricut
PIN FOR LATER
- Unlocking Sublimation: A Guide to Sublimation
- Sublimation Oven or Cricut Mug Press – Which is Best?
- HTVRONT Auto Heat Press Product Review
- Cricut Maker VS Cricut Maker 3 – Which Cricut Machine is Right for you?
- Cricut Glue Gun Product Review
- How to Sublimate Frosted Glass Can Tumblers with the Cricut Mug Press
- How to Sublimate Tumblers with the Cricut Mug Press
- How to Sublimate on Wood With or Without a Sublimation Printer